By Ado Oyeyemi
A health worker identified as Ojoma Emie has been killed in a suspected herdsmen attack in Ikobi, Apa Local Government Area of Benue State, sparking renewed concerns over insecurity in the community.
The victim, a father of three, was reportedly ambushed on Monday while returning from Ugbokpo town, where he had gone to purchase medical supplies.
Residents said the attack occurred at Ugbobi Junction along the Ikobi-Olegogba section of the Ikobi-Ugbokpo road, an area they described as a frequent hotspot for violent attacks on travellers.
According to community sources, the assailants intercepted Emie, killed him and left his mutilated body at the scene before fleeing.
His remains were later discovered by residents, who alerted members of the community.
Confirming the incident, the Vice President of the Ikobi Progressive Forum, Dr. Edoh Ofugocho, said residents became alarmed after hearing several gunshots from the area.
He explained that community members immediately feared for Emie’s safety because they were aware he had travelled to Ugbokpo earlier in the day.
“People heard repeated gunshots and became apprehensive. It was later confirmed that he had been attacked and killed at Ugbobi Junction,” Ofugocho said.
He described the deceased as a dedicated health worker who served the community and was survived by his wife and children.
Ofugocho lamented the recurring attacks allegedly carried out by suspected armed herders in the area, accusing authorities of failing to provide adequate security for residents.
According to him, the road where the incident occurred has repeatedly been used as an ambush point, forcing residents to live in fear and limiting movement within neighbouring communities.
He condemned the killing, describing it as a disturbing example of the worsening security situation in the area.
The community leader further disclosed that the deceased had been laid to rest and appealed to security agencies and government authorities to take urgent steps to safeguard lives and property.
He called for the arrest and prosecution of those responsible for the attack, stressing that residents could no longer continue living under the threat of violence.
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The incident has once again heightened concerns over persistent attacks in parts of Benue State, where communities have repeatedly called for stronger security measures to stem the tide of killings and displacement.
